THE TWIN FLAMES

The Shinday family took possession of their flat on the second floor. The middle-aged couple had two children. The elder daughter Leena had finished her Bachelor of Science in I.T. stream and was awaiting a call letter from one of the companies she had attended the interviews with recently. Her younger brother, Rohit was doing engineering. The Shinday couple was an executive in different departments of the same company. This happy family was getting settled in the new house.

The Shinday family realised that their neighbour, the Bhoir family was busy attending their guests getting together for a family function. The house was well decorated and the atmosphere there was cheerful and lively.

On Sunday afternoon, Madam Bhoir knocked at their neighbour. Mrs. Shinday opened the door.

"Hello, I am Nirmala Bhoir, your immediate neighbour. I wanted to meet you the next day when you arrived. But as you must have realised, all of us are extremely busy with my daughter, Manishaa's marriage coming Sunday. I am inviting your entire family to the marriage at 10 in the morning and for lunch after that. Please surely make it to join us for the function.”

“Oh, certainly we will attend the wedding.” Mrs. Shinday said. Leena came forward and said, “ But aunty, please have a seat. I will quickly make some juice for you.”

"No. Please, I don't have time to have a drink. After the function is over, we will have a relaxed meeting.

Actually, my husband was to come with me to invite you but as you know, there are so many tasks to be attended to. We have shared them among the three of us. We two and my elder son Saagara. Extending invitations to the residents of the building is my responsibility. So please, do come for the marriage, all of you. After the rush-hush-up of the marriage is over, we will have a meeting and we will know each other more.

Okay then. Please do join us this coming Sunday." Saying this, Nirmala Bhoir handed over the invitation card to Mrs. Shinday and left the place to invite the other members of the building. 

“Nice card. Also, Mrs. Bhoir appeared to be quite cordial.” Leena said looking at the invitation card.

The Shinday family was also not completely settled as such. Leena was arranging the furniture at their convenience.

The next day morning, Mrs. Shinday and Leena started for the vegetable market. They just stepped out of the house and at the same time, from the opposite flat, a handsome young man came out. When he saw the Shinday members, with a smile he wished them, “Hallo”.

Leena was pleased with his sweet mannerism. Saagara too was delighted to see graceful Leena.

“We are trying to get familiar with the area. Going to the vegetable and fish market.” Mrs. Shinday said.

"The fish market is a little away. I am going on that side. If you don't mind, you can join me. I will drop you at the fish market and then I will move further."

“That will be great.” Mrs. Shinday said.

Getting quickly near his car, he opened the door and let both the ladies in.

Saagara was elated to accompany Leena. Though originally, he did not have any plan to go to the fish market, he decided to purchase fish himself so that he could have some extra time with Leena.

When they were on the main road, he said, “I am Saagara Bhoir. We are so happy that we got a neighbour. For nearly two years, this flat was vacant ever since we took charge of our flat.” After pausing for a few minutes, Saagara added, “ Usually, I do the fish buying on Sundays. But since I am on leave for my sister’s marriage, I am going to buy fish today.”

"It is serendipitous that we got a lift from you to the fish market. “ Mrs. Shinday said.

Saagara had a sweet smile in response. He looked in the rearview mirror and was extremely happy to have a glimpse of charming Leena.  

After a 10-12 minute drive and many peeps at Leena through the rearview mirror, Saagara parked the car. They all went into the fish market. Saagara finished his purchases and said. “ Aunty, I have finished my buying. Now, I will have to go to Tilak Nagar which is far away. I will take your leave. I hope you will not have any problem getting an auto-rickshaw to get back.”

"Thank you so much, Saagara. Now, we will manage ourselves. Please go ahead.” Mrs. Shinday said.

"OK then. Bye.” Saying this Saagara had a glance at Leena. She gave a beaming smile.

As Saagara left the place, Leena stared at him till he went out of sight.

Finishing the buying of fish and vegetables, Leena and her mother came back home hiring an autorickshaw.

At home, Leena was waiting for two things. A letter of appointment from the company, on the internet, and a glimpse of Saagara busy in wedding preparations.

On Sunday, the Shinday family joined the merrymaking of the Bhoir family in the wedding hall in the nearby area. Mrs. Shinday contributed actively to the activities of the actual marriage. Leena joined the younger group taking care of the arrangements to make the guests comfortable. Leena was looking after the bride Manisha’s needs.

But Leena’s main attention was on Saagara. She was getting overwhelmed by his efficiently managing various aspects of visiting people. She was finding utmost pleasure in extending her helping hand to Saagara. At the same time, she was getting upset whenever she found him talking to other young girls.

The function was over when after the ceremony of marriage, the luncheon arrangements were enjoyed by the attendees.

In the evening, the newly-wed couple went to the groom's house with the groom's entire family and a select few from the bride’s side.

The Shinday family returned home. They found in Bhoir’s flat, only the very seniors had come back home. Mrs. Shinday and Leena checked with them whether they needed any help. After making the old guests comfortable, the Shinday family went to their house.

The next day, the guests from the outstation also left. The hustle and bustle of the Bhoir family was cooled down. A member of the family having left to join another family, had made the mood somber.

Slowly, the Bhoir family sprang back to their lively routine. The Bhoir couple joined their office duties. Saagara started attending his workplace.

In 3-4 days, Leena received her appointment letter. The Shinday family was in a jubilant mood.

That evening, Leena was waiting for Saagara to return. When she saw his car in the parking lot, Leena was looking for some opportunity to see Saagara.

“Saagara, I need your help. I want to tell you that I have received the appointment letter. I have to join the company tomorrow. And it so happened that my father had to leave for Delhi taking an evening flight. Can you help me with the area of my office?" Leena said.

“Why not? What is the name of the area?”  Saagara asked.

“’Dnyaan’ is the company. The area is Bandra-Kurla Complex.”

With a grand smile, Saagara said, ”Oh.  That is the area where I go. What is the name of the building?”

“Kanchan Ganga,” Leena said.

“Oh my God. That is the same building where my office is. My company is ‘E-Emphasis’. I am on the 17th floor. I think ‘Dnyaan’ is on the 6th floor.” Saagara was delighted.

Mrs. Bhoir had just returned from her office. She overheard the dialogue.

"That means Leena, you are going to get a lift from door to door."

“Yes. What a coincidence!” Leena said. 

“You start at 8. Isn’t it?”  Leena further asked.

Saagara was surprised to notice that Leena knew his timings so very well.

"Yes. I leave at 8 a.m.  You be ready by that time. I will reach you at the doorstep of your office. It takes nearly 45 minutes."

“Sure. I won’t delay you even a minute.” Leena said.

Very happy Leena left Bhoir’s house. She told her mother about the coincidence that her office was in the same building where Saagara worked.

The next day, Leena was ready before 8 in the morning. When Saagara started from his house, Leena joined him.

The first day at the office was very comfortable for Leena.

While returning, Saagara picked up Leena. They had a nice time discussing Leena’s experience in her office. The long drive back home had turned enjoyable. 

When reached home, Saagara pressed the doorbell of Leena’s house. He waited till the door was opened. Mrs. Shinday saw Saagara with Leena.

“See, I have brought back your Leena safe from the office.” Saagara declared cheerfully. “Yes. Thanks a lot! Why don’t you have a hot coffee with us to ward off tiredness due to driving in heavy traffic? I also just reached from office though I came from nearby Goreygaon.” Mrs. Shinday said.

“No. Thanks. Coffee sometime later.” Saying this Saagara turned to his door and pressed the doorbell. Mrs. Bhoir opened the door. Saagara entered and shut the door after him. Leena entered her house.

"So, how was the first day at the office?" Mrs. Shinday enquired.

“I got introduced to my colleagues and in general, to the office norms.”

“Okay. Suresh called from Delhi. He was eager to know about your first day.”

"I will call Baba. When will he be free?"

“He said, he will call you after dinner at around 9:30.”

“Okay.”                                           

After talking to her father, Leena lay on the bed. She was thinking about so many interesting things that happened that day. Apart from office matters, Saagara's company to and from the office was the most significant happening. She remembered every dialogue between them. With a happy feeling, Leena entered the dream world.

In the adjacent house, Saagara was lying in bed ruminating on every dialogue he had with Leena. He had so many female friends, but he was never in such an exceptional mental state. Saagara was awaiting the start of the next day and going to the office in the lovely company of Leena.

Following every day was wonderful for these youngsters. Their bond was getting thicker.

But one fine day, Leena had a jolt. She saw a sweet young lady with Saagara at home. To upset her more, Leena found that lady with Saagara when they started for the office in the morning. Three of them got down and went near the car.

“This is Leena.” Saagara introduced Leena to that lady. He opened the rear door and directed her to get in. She got in and expected Leena to take a seat next to her. But Saagara closed the door and asked Leena to take the front seat next to him.

Leena noticed a strong resentment on the lady’s face.

“Leena, this is Sangita, my cousin. Her office is in Chakala. So, she will get dropped at Andheri.”

“Hello”, Leena responded.

After spending 20 minutes quietly, Sangita got out of the car at Andheri.

In the evening, Saagara picked up Leena.

Leena was keen to know more about Sangita. Leena was putting up more and more questions about  Sangita and Saagara was answering them in detail. As they were approaching Andheri, Leena was getting increasingly annoyed with the idea of seeing Sangita again. But Saagara did not stop at Andheri. They passed Andheri and continued with the same speed. Leena was relieved.

Saagara looked at Leena. He found Leena at ease. He was amused. Talking about office matters, Leena avoided mentioning Sangita.

When they approached their house, Saagara said, “Leena, you did not enquire about picking up Sangita?” and he raised his eyebrows.

Leena looked at Saagara without any expression.

Saagara had noted the irritation Leena had due to Sangita.

He himself clarified. “Sangita was with us only for a day. She must have gone back to her place in Wadala.”

Leena was relieved. The changed expression on her face amused Saagara.

After a few weeks, while going to the office, Saagara was in a jubilant mood.

“Leena, are you free in the evening? “ Saagara asked.

“Yes. No specific work. Why?” Leena.

"I want to take you out to dinner."

“Great. But what is the occasion?”

“Forget about the reason for it. Tell me, whether you would like to dine with me?”

“Yes. Surely. But I must know the purpose.”

“Guess.”

“I can’t. “

“Still.”  

“You must be getting engaged or further than that, getting married.”

“Do you think, on that occasion, without you knowing about it, we will have dinner together?”

“Who knows?”

“No madam. I got promoted. From Assistant Manager, I am now full Manager.”

“Oh, great! Congratulations. I am feeling hungry right now.”

"No. I won't be able to leave the office during lunchtime. Moreover, in the evening, we won't need to look at time. We can enjoy ourselves relaxed. You inform your mother about our plan for the evening.”

“I am excited for the evening.”

Saagara parked the car and they used the elevator to go to their respective offices.

In the evening, Saagara took his car to the restaurant “Global Fusion”.

Both of them enjoyed every moment of their dinner party

After a couple of months in the office, Leena was called by the Chief Manager to his cabin. Little anxious Leena entered the cabin.

“Look Miss Leena Shinday, we are happy with your performance so far. Now, the company has acquired a time-bound project to be executed in Boston, USA in six months. The company is sending a few candidates picked from our country along with some from other countries. You have been selected as a specialist in Artificial Intelligence. Your keenness to learn, your enthusiasm, and your application have weighed heavily for you though you are short in your experience. I am pretty sure of a good performance from you. That will give you a big jump monetarily as well as a unique experience to your credit. Are you ready?”

"When will I have to start? I have to discuss it with my parents." Leena said.

“By the end of this month, you will have to leave.”

“I am excited about the offer. But I have to discuss this with my parents. Can I have two days to give you my answer?”

“Oh yes, certainly. You let me know by Monday. “

“Thank you, sir," Leena said in a joyous mood.

“I look forward to your affirmative answer,” the Chief Manager said.

In the evening, exuberant Leena met Saagara.

While driving back, Saagara said," What happened in the office that you are super excited about?"

"Nothing outstanding. However, I am offered to be part of an International project to be executed in Boston, USA. " Leena answered.

“That is absolutely great. What is bothering you?” Saagara.

"Saagara, the project will start at the beginning of the coming month. I will have to leave at the end of this month."

“So what ?”

“Will you agree to my going?” Leena.

"What do you mean? This is an extraordinary opportunity you are getting so early in your career. There is no other option." Saagara said in an exhilarating mood.

“Are you saying this from the bottom of your heart?”

“No Leena. Don’t think otherwise. You have to accept it. Are you worried about your parents? As far as I know them, they will be more than glad.”

"I know Baba and Aai will never oppose my going abroad. But I am a little anxious.”

“Don’t worry at all. You are going.”

“But what about you?”

“What do you mean? I will certainly wait for you to return.  I will definitely miss you,” in a choked voice Saagara said.

They reached home. Both of them were in a happy mood but a bit tense.

For Leena, her younger brother Rohit opened the door since Mrs. Shinde had not returned then.

“Are you coming in for hot coffee?” Leena asked.

“No. Not now.” Saying this Saagara turned to his flat and pressed the bell.

After getting refreshed, Saagara was sipping tea at the dining table. Mr. Bhoir and Mrs. Nirmala Bhoir joined him with their mugs of tea.

“Now that Manisha is happily married, I think, we should start looking for a match for Saagara. What do you say Saagara?" Mother said.

"Not so soon," Saagara responded.

“What is holding you up, Saagara? Not so soon means how much more do you want to wait?  And for what?" Father opened up.

“Manisha’s marriage was over just a few months ago. Both of you must have got tired of handling a huge crowd. You relax for some time. Get rejuvenated. Then we can think of.”

“Don’t give any excuse. Saagara, you are already 25. This is the right age for any eligible bachelor. If you don't want to get married now, then when will you marry? After you get old?" Father said annoyingly.

"Nothing doing. My cousin Nalini had called yesterday. She suggested her daughter Sangita. How did you like Sangita, when she was here? As far as I am concerned, I found her a perfect match for Saagara and suitable for our family,” Mother. 

“Nirmala, do not impose your thoughts on Saagara. He is now grown up. He knows his expectations. Particularly, I am confident of Saagara for his capability to make decisions and his empathetic behaviour. Let us not pressure him by telling him our ideas. Beta Saagara, be confident in yourself. If you have liked any girl to make your life partner, please tell us. We will honour your decision.” Mr. Bhoir said.

"Surely Baba and Aai, I will let you know after I make my decision. I don't want to go through the process of matchmaking." Saagara said firmly.

“Very good, Saagara. I am extremely happy. My only suggestion is that while choosing your partner, you don’t get succumbed to anyone else’s ideas. Not even your parents.

Now, Nirmala, no more discussion on this topic. Whenever Saagara is ready, he will tell us. Beta, you assume our consent to your choice." Mr Bhoir assured Saagara.

Saagara was thrilled to hear their ideas which would help him to finalize such an important and delicate matter of life.

Leena and Leena alone was in his mind. He started evaluating her as his life partner. His inclination toward her was getting consolidated.

On Saturday, Leena’s younger brother, Rohit came to Saagara and told him that he was called by his father, whenever he was free to decide over Rohit’s career prospects. Saagara said, “I will be there in half an hour.” Rohit left.

Nirmala Bhoir came close to Saagara.

“I hope they don’t ask you about Leena. Be careful.” She whispered.

“Nirmala, Both of us should keep our mouths shut on this matter. Saagara is a mature person. He knows how to handle any situation." Mr. Bhoir insisted.

After half an hour, Saagara went to Shindays.

“Come, come, Saagara.” Mr. Shinday welcomed Saagara.

Saagara took a seat. Mrs. Shinday also joined them.

“Saagara, you know, Rohit is in his final year of computer science. He is not interested in attending campus interviews. He is thinking of going to some Western country for doing post-graduation. He is preparing for the GRE. What is your advice to him?" Mr. Shinday started.

Saagara looked at Rohit. He was anxious to hear words of wisdom from a little senior to him, Saagara.

"Look, Rohit. The education system in India is almost on par with that of Western countries. You don't need to shift to that country if you want to pursue any particular subject. Many well-known universities have links with Indian colleges and many Indian technological institutes have their branches in different countries.  Ten years ago, when India had just changed its status from an underdeveloped country to a developed nation, higher education was at a better level in Western countries. But not today. Our degrees are valued and are considered quite up-to-date with cutting-edge technology. If you have an interest in a specific subject which is a specialty of any particular country, you can think of going there for higher education. But not otherwise. The world is looking at our country as a source of expertise in various aspects of knowledge. Our nation is developing many projects for several countries. Also, our experts are going to different places to implement various applications.

So, not necessary to go abroad to get a higher degree. Complete your post-graduation here only and move all over the world as an expert.”

Rohit was convinced. The Shinday couple was overwhelmed with Saagara's maturity, convincing power, and knowledge. They wished Leena got a life partner like him.

 Leena joined the discussion. But the topic of Leena's receiving an offer to go to the USA on deputation for a period of six months did not come up. Everyone thought that matter to be a delicate issue that could be interpreted differently. So,  after a coffee, Saagara came back to his house.

Mrs. Bhoir was curious to know whether Leena was discussed in their brainstorming. She posed a straight question to Saagara," Did they talk about Leena’s marriage ?”

“No. Leena did not appear in our discussion.” Saagara was irritated.

"Have they indicated anything about Leena's marriage?" Mother was more inquisitive.

“No  Aai.   Don’t think that I am the only man suitable for Leena. Hundreds of boys in the society would jump for Leena. And Aai, do you know, Leena is going to the USA at the end of this month? " Saagara had a slip of the tongue. Realizing his mistake, he thought, ‘Oh, what did I do? I should not have disclosed to mother about Leena going abroad.’

“What? Is Leena going abroad?” mother.

"That is what I heard in the canteen, yesterday."

“ Good. Relieved.” Mother had a sigh of relief.

“Aai, I don’t understand you. What is that in Leena’s going abroad, has comforted you?”

“Nothing like that. I just said.” Mother.

Irritated Saagara got involved in some other thing.

The next day evening, Nirmala Bhoir took the opportunity to visit Shindays.

"So, how is life? After Manisha's marriage, now I have some time to talk to you. Are you free?"

“Oh! Certainly, I am not busy now. I also just arrived from my office. Would you mind having coffee with me? “ Mrs. Shinday asked.

“Yes. Why not?” Mrs. Bhoir.

“How is Manishaa?  When is she visiting you?”

“She is fine. She will come here sometime next week.” Mrs. Bhoir said.

After a pause, she continued, “ I heard Leena is going abroad. It is so nice to get such an opportunity from the office.”

“Yes. She will be going by the end of this month.”

“We are just relaxed from Manisha’s marriage and my mother-in-law is calling me time and again insisting on getting Saagara married soon. She is expecting the marriage to happen just next month. On top of it, she is suggesting a girl whom she saw during Manisha's marriage. And that happened to be my cousin's daughter. She is calling me and pushing me to do something about her idea. When she talked to her son, Saagara's father, he pushed her off. 'Saagara is mature enough and he will choose his partner himself. We will not take any action from our side,’ he said. But she is chasing me up again and again. These old people.” Nirmala Bhoir shook her shoulders to express her helplessness.

Mrs. Shinday responded with a smile.   

“In every possibility, my mother-in-law is going to push Saagara’s marriage in a month or two. I hope Saagara gets a good match.” Mrs. Bhoir added.

"Yes. Children's marriage is a big concern for the parents. “ Mrs. Shinday supported Mrs. Bhoir.

 By this time, the coffee was ready. Both of them took seats and started having boiling hot coffee.

The day of Leena’s departure to Boston was approaching. Leena and her parents were getting more and more tense. The clothing to suit the cold climate of Boston was purchased. Leena was anxious about the new project, new environment, and on top of it the idea of missing Saagara. She was getting upset whenever she noticed the tension in Saagara's eyes.

And on one occasion, while returning home, she could not control her feelings. With teary eyes, she moved close to Saagara. In a choked voice, she said, “Saagara, I am finding it extremely difficult to think of separation from you for such a long time.” She leaned on his chest and started sobbing.

“Ay, mad lady, we have the mobile phones with us na? We will be in touch every day. Whenever you miss me, give me a call. Don't bother about timing. I will be thinking about you every moment whenever my mind is free of office work. Six months will pass off very quickly. Pay attention to your project work and you will have very little free time. But whenever you remember me, be sure that I am also thinking about you.” Saagara said in a choked voice.

Leena wept uncontrolled. Saagara held her in front of him, looked straight into her eyes, and said, "Leena, six months will pass off very fast. Then we will be together.”

Leena was comforted by Saagara's loving words. She wiped her eyes. Sat upright. Saagara held her hand. Pressed it gently. Leena was exhilarated.

Soon, the day of Leena’s departure arrived. Leena’s father took out his car. The entire Shinday family got into the car. Saagara joined them. While driving to the airport, everyone was quiet. Mr. Shinday was checking with Leena about important documents. With the instructions about emigration to the USA and the procedures at the airport after landing, he was making Leena comfortable.    

After reaching the airport, the Shinday family was dropped at the entry point. Saagara then took charge of the car and moved further to park the car.

Quickly Saagara joined the Shinday family bidding bye to Leena. Everyone was heavy-hearted. Rohit noted that Saagara too was tense.

After Leena checked in, the teary-eyed Shinday family got into the car. Saagara drove them back home.

The next day started when Saagara got into his car. But Leena was not there to join him.

Saagara missed Leena's cheerful company.

After a couple of days, Leena talked to the Shinday family and to Saagara too. Pleasant dialogues were exchanged. 

Days were passing. Leena was getting adjusted to the new environment. She was getting more and more involved with the project. In her free time, she remembered Saagara and contacted him whenever possible. That made these youngsters happy.

Saagara’s mother was keen on getting Saagara married to Sangita. But both the male members of the family were firmly against this idea. Father had sensed Saagara’s interest in Leena. In full support of his son, Mr Bhoir said, "Nirmala, I am telling you repeatedly, Saagara is a mature man and he would tell us when he is prepared to get married. Don’t impose your ideas on Saagara.

And Saagara got good news from the office. He was being sent on deputation to France to execute a project in quantum computing. Saagara was thrilled. He contacted Leena and shared this excellent news.

“Leena, I am going to France to execute a project in Monaco, a very challenging task. I am excited. I will be leaving for France just next Monday. How is your project progressing? When will you return to India?” Saagara reeled off.

Leena had a gulp and whispered, “ But Saagara, just yesterday I booked my tickets to Mumbai for the end of this month. Our project is on the verge of completion and I am winding up from here at the end of this month. And now this news of you going to France. I don’t know what lies in our future. “ Further, Saagara heard only sobs.

“Don’t worry Leena. We will find some way to be together without affecting our careers. Believe me.” Saagara said firmly. “ This project would take not more than six months. Then we will be together.”

The next week Saagara boarded a plane for France. He entered Monaco and started working on his project. A few days later, when Leena landed in India, Saagara was engaged in his project in Monaco. Spending a week with her family, she rejoined her project in Boston. The project was extended and her stay was stretched further, six months passed quickly. Saagaraa returned to India but Leena was not there to receive him.

To add further hurdle in their getting together, Saagaraa was informed about an important project in another country - Papua New Guinea.

He was promoted to chief Manager and was responsible for establishing the company's new product based on Quantum Computing in the country “Papua New Guinea”. Capable that he was, Saagara was entrusted with such a big task. He had to shift to Papua New Guinea within a week to take charge of his responsibility.

Saagara was on cloud nine. He had moved up the ladder in his career.

Mr. Bhoir thought of Saagara’s marriage.

“Saagara, now tell me frankly. When will you get married? “ Saagara’s father posed a direct question to him.

Saagara was shocked. “Marrying? With whom?”

“Now Saagara, don’t equivocate. I want a straightforward answer. Do you like Leena?” Mr. Bhoir asked.

“I don’t want to tell you lies. Yes. I love her.” Saagara.

“What about her? Have you checked with her? “

"Yes, Baba. She also likes me. "

“Then what about marriage?”

“Yes. We have agreed to get married.”

“Then? What is holding you up?”

“Baba, I don’t have any answer.”

“Saagara, while chasing a career, do not ignore personal matters. Talk to Leena and chalk out plans for marriage even before you shift to Papua N.G."

"Trust me, Baba. We will take the right decision,” Saagara assured his father.

Saagara told Leena the entire happening in his office.

"Leena, it is Papua New Guinea. This country is trying its best to overcome all the hurdles and get into the mainstream as a fast-developing country. Our country is helping them in whatever way we can. What do you think of this opportunity?" Saagara posed a question to Leena.

“Why don’t we talk to P.N.G. and get the exact idea about that country?” Leena suggested.

The next day, Saagara went to our External Affairs Ministry office and sought their opinion.

The officer there explained, “I remember before we changed our status into a developed one, our country needed a helping hand to augment our economy. This country P.N.G. is also in the same position. No money to attract talent for cutting-edge technology. So unable to be competitive in the world market. The vested interest spread negative ideas about the country.

Even India was projected as a snake charmer’s country, a place of many pandemics, unreliable citizens, a high rate of crimes, etc. So talented people from developed countries were not ready to come to our nation.

But slowly, our culture and our talent came to light and the perception of our country got altered. Many Indians are holding high positions in developed nations. A few countries extended a helping hand and we got listed high in strong economies of the world. Our culture suggests us to share whatever we have with others who are wanting it. During the Coronavirus pandemic, India developed the vaccine and shared it with many countries who could not afford it, without any charge.

Our culture always has given more importance to human values than acquiring wealth.

I suggest you talk to the Ambassador of Papua New Guinea and get to know the reality and then decide.”

Immediately, Saagara sought an appointment with the Ambassador of P.N.G..

"Uncultured citizens, high rate of crime, presence of many pandemics, etc. are fake reports. Even sometimes there were rumours of our people practising cannibalism. A sporadic event of theft is highlighted as a frequent matter. Views of uncleanliness, are misplaced. I suggest, you visit a city like Lae or Mount Kagen once and see the situation yourself.

Regarding the standard of living, I would like to advise you that you should not expect a luxurious life there. Our country can not afford automation in many areas. A simple style of living is prevalent. To maintain low carbon emissions, there is a restriction on using personal cars. We insist on using public transport. But as the economy improves, I  guarantee you that we will slowly introduce matters of convenience.

Our countrymen have great regard for India and Indians. You will be treated very well there. You will not regret your decision. If you have any doubts, they will be clarified as early as possible.

Mr. Bhoir, rest assured that India is our role model inspiring us to develop our economy. Our people give importance to human values. We also have to fight against neglected hygiene, superstitions, etc. But we have a very strong culture giving us confidence in breaking the shackles of being under-developed.

Mr. Bhoir, please believe me. You will be treated like one of our family. You will enjoy the rich natural surroundings. I understand you are a nature lover. You will get an excellent response from our pristine nature.

After finding out further details, Saagara discussed with Leena his inclination to move to Papua New Guinea.

“Saagara, I am so elated to know you are climbing up fast on the career ladder. There is no alternative to this opportunity of setting up the quantum computing centre on your own and establishing its operational matters. You take charge of your task and establish yourself. After I get back to India, I will discuss with my company about Papua New Guinea. I will try to get leave for two years. If they agree, that will be fine. Otherwise, I will tender my resignation. You take leave for a week or so, to come to India. We will get married in the presence of our parents. We will then take the next flight available and come to P.N.G. Meanwhile, we will look for any opportunity for me in P.N.G. only.”

“There is a big opportunity for AI associated with Q.C. I hope everything works well for us.” Saagara was excited.

He got ready. Mr. and Mrs. Bhoir were ecstatic to see their son scaling greater heights in his career. But Nirmala Bhoir was disappointed that her plan to get Saagara married to her choice, Sangita, could not be implemented. He had to leave the country just the next week.

One evening, Saagara met Mr. and Mrs. Shinday and discussed the plans he had made with Leena. The Shinday couple was relieved to know that Saagara was still serious with Leena. They offered wholehearted support to the plan.

Saagara took a flight to P.N.G.

He started working on his assignment. Days were passing quickly. Three months went and he spoke to Leena.

"I will be back in India next week. So, you plan your leave to come to India. I am eagerly waiting to be with you,“ Leena said,

Saagara realized how fast the life was moving. After surpassing the complicated problems of setting up the facility of quantum entanglement, he had to face the tough task of creating and maintaining critical temperatures needed for quantum computing. He noticed the need for an AI expert. Saagara discussed the matter with the Ministry of Science and Technology of P.N.G. and got approval for the post of an AI expert. Saagara suggested Leena as the right candidate for the assignment. The need was immediately sanctioned by the Ministry. 

Saagara’s request for a fortnight’s leave was approved.

After reaching Mumbai, Saagara had a meeting with his parents wherein he announced that he had chosen his life partner and he would be introducing her to them in a couple of days. Both Bhoirs started guessing who it could be.

His mother was a bit disappointed that she could not bring Sangita as her daughter-in-law. She was eager to meet Saagara’s choice of life partner.

When Leena landed back in India, Saagara was there to receive her.

When Leena entered his house, the parents were happy with Saagara’s choice.  Father, in particular, was delighted to see Leena and was happy that his son had made the right choice. His mother Nirmala also welcomed Leena forgetting about her own preference Sangita.

Mr. and Mrs. Bhoir knocked on the door of Shinday. Mrs. Shinday when opened the door, she was happy to see the Bhoir couple waiting. Saagara and Leena were behind them.

"Oh, come on in, please." Mrs Shinday welcomed the neighbours and the young pair.

“Here are the sweets for the good news. Our children have decided to tie the wedding knot. We are so happy,” saying this Mrs. Bhoir handed over a packet of pedhas.

Receiving the box of pedhas, Mrs. Shinday hugged Mrs. Bhoir. The male members of the families also expressed their joy by shaking hands and hugged each other exhilarated. Saagara and Leena together touched the feet of both the parents and sought their blessings.

All of them went to a grand restaurant and celebrated the occasion with a fine lunch.

In the evening Leena and Saagara went to the nearby park.

Taking up a secluded place, the youngsters opened up their hearts.

“Saagara, finally we are together," uttering these words somehow, Leena's eyes started overflowing. " I was wondering whether we will ever get together in this birth. What a kind of hide-and-seek! Sangita. Your mother wanted Sangita as her daughter-in-law. We could hardly overcome that hurdle and I went to the USA. Before I could return, you went to Monaco. When I was here you were in Monaco. I had to go back to the USA for the extended project and you returned to India. Again, you went to P.N.G. before I completed my project in the USA. Now, by the grace of God, we are together. And Saagara, now I don't want to leave you ever. Whatever career opportunities spring up, if we have to separate, we will not accept them," saying this Leena leaned on Saagara’s chest and started crying.

“Yes certainly madam, we will not move apart in any situation. You resign your job and we will search for a position for you in P.N.G. We want to make our careers but not at the cost of our personal lives. Leena, I promise, we will not separate in future,” saying this, he picked up her hand and kissed it deeply. His eyes were teary. After a small function of performing marriage, the newlyweds received blessings from the small crowd and boarded the flight to P.N.G.

After checking her credentials, Leena was enrolled in the Quantum Computer Center which Saagara was establishing.

The intelligent, sincere, hardworking couple performed so well that the project was progressing very fast.

Then Saagara came across senior scientist Dr. Vithoba, a biological preeminent. His great-grandfather was a revolutionary in the British India during the first Indian War of  Independence.  He was wanted by British Police. Instead of spending his entire life in the cellular jail of Andaman, he escaped from British rule and took shelter in New Guinea. There his grandson, Dr.Vithoba established himself as an eminent botanist. He was a pioneer in developing Arabic Coffee in P.N.G.. Later on, he was working on quantum biology. He had reached quite an advanced stage. But then, while discussing with young Saagara, the idea of quantum tunnelling, the barrier penetration was pondered over.

Dr. Vithoba explained,

“Most animals have the same five senses as humans have but some animals have extended range. For example, humans have a capability of hearing range of between 20 and 20,000 Hz, whereas elephants can hear waves as low as 14 Hz, The cats can hear up to 64,000 Hz frequencies.

Some animals have senses that humans don't have. Animals, like platypuses, can detect different electrical fields, Electroreception.

A current study indicates that some drugs open up some dormant sensors of human beings and like animals, their sensory responses can cross the human limitations. My feeling is that with this therapy, soon humans will be able to sense ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, or even ultrasonic, high frequencies of sound and the magnetic compass sense.

Saagara, we need to simulate the brain functioning using quantum computing and extend the human sensory responses with the help of A.I.".

“We will have to check the need for Neuromorphic computing technology for this simulation purpose,” Saagara responded.

The trio started working on the brain simulation. With a huge amount of data, they used A.I. And a startling concept was established. The possible extension of the sensory responses of humans created waves in the scientific world. Using Leena’s expertise in A.I. the trio could put up a paper in the international technology journal.

It received raving feedback. Their stunning finding was recommended for the Nobel Prize in Biology. Due to this, P.N.G. shot up into the spotlight in the world of science and technology.

 The government of P.N.G.  was so happy that they presented a big piece of land to them. All of them were accorded the “ROLE OF HONOUR,” the highest award in that country. That strengthened the ties between the two countries India and The P.N.G.

Saagara and Leena returned to India. They were felicitated by the Government of India for doing such a marvellous job for the country.

When the couple reached their home, a communication from the company, “e-emphasis” was waiting for Saagara. He was offered the post of Director of International Projects. Also, Leena was appointed as Assistant Director, of AI Applications.

The emotional crush that had sprouted a few years back, had turned into a big creeper with a lot of flowers blooming.